Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections in Louisiana

A cervical epidural steroid injection treats the pain of an inflamed nerve in your neck by reducing nerve swelling. At LA Pain Doctor, we use this image-guided treatment to help patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA who have neck and arm pain from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or another problem pressing on a nerve.

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How a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection Works

Your cervical spine contains nerve roots that branch out to your shoulders, arms, and hands. When a disc bulges, bone spurs form, or the spinal canal narrows, these nerves can become compressed and inflamed. The result is often sharp neck pain, along with burning, tingling, or weakness that travels down the arm.

During a cervical epidural steroid injection, your provider delivers a combination of anti-inflammatory steroid and numbing medication into the epidural space surrounding the irritated nerve. By calming inflammation right at the source, the injection can significantly reduce pain and help you move more comfortably.

Conditions This Injection Can Help

What to Expect

The procedure is performed in the office and usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. After numbing the skin, your provider uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to place a thin needle precisely in the epidural space. Contrast dye confirms the correct location before the medication is delivered.

Most patients go home shortly after the injection. The numbing medicine may provide immediate relief, while the steroid typically begins working within two to seven days. Some patients need a series of injections to achieve the best results, and many combine injections with physical therapy to strengthen the neck and prevent future flare-ups.

Part of a Complete Treatment Plan

Cervical epidural injections are often combined with other treatments for neck pain treatment. If your pain comes from the facet joints rather than a nerve, your provider may recommend medial branch blocks or cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy. For long-standing nerve pain that does not respond to injections, advanced options such as a spinal cord stimulator trial may be considered. Learn more about our head and neck pain care and pain management services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection

How long does a cervical epidural steroid injection last?

Relief varies. Some patients feel better for several weeks, while others enjoy several months of improvement. Results often last longer when combined with physical therapy.

Is the injection painful?

The skin is numbed first, so most patients feel only pressure or brief discomfort. The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

How many injections will I need?

Some patients need only one injection, while others benefit from a series. Your provider will recommend a plan based on your response.

Can I drive home after the procedure?

If you receive sedation, you will need someone to drive you home. Your provider will give you specific instructions.

Are there side effects?

Side effects are usually mild and may include temporary soreness, flushing, or elevated blood sugar. Serious complications are rare.

Can this injection help arm numbness and tingling?

Yes. By reducing inflammation around a compressed nerve, the injection can ease radiating arm pain, numbness, and tingling.

How do I schedule a cervical epidural injection?

Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule an evaluation at one of our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.

Get Relief From Neck and Arm Pain

Don’t let a pinched nerve control your life. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.

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